5 Ways to Impress the HR Manager

Your resume may get you the interview, but impressing the Human Resource Manager is the only way to land the job. Oftentimes, highly qualified candidates fail their job interviews without even knowing it. For biopharmaceutical companies, it is important to understand that the attributes an HR manager looks for during the interview are very different from what an HR manager would look for outside of the life sciences field. HR managers are looking for punctuality, politeness, compassion and experience. If you convey these skills during your interview, you will certainly impress the HR manager.

Showing up early to an interview shows initiative and dedication. If the HR manager isn't there when you arrive, take the time to go over your resume and rehearse the interview to yourself. According to Work Smart California, you should practice your interview before arriving as well. Be polite to the secretary or front-desk person who directs you to the waiting area to be seated. Your conduct while waiting may trickle down to the HR manager after you've gone.

2. Be Accurate

One thing that could cost you the position is discrepancies or inconsistencies on your resume. Although you are asked to bring a copy of your resume, and to write this information on an application, you will still be asked about your employment and educational history. If you give any answers that are not consistent with your application or resume, this could send up a flag. Be sure to avoid this by taking a good look at your resume and going over it to yourself several times before going to the interview.

With that being said, remember to make the best impression with a well-polished resume. According to the United States Department of Labor, an effective resume contains:

During your interview, the HR manager will ask if you’ve had any negative experiences in your past employment. Be honest about this information and use it as a strong point in your interview. If you had a particularly hard time working with an ex-employee, share the situation and the solution you used to overcome it. This showcases your ability as a problem solver and displays your honesty.

4. Ask Questions About the Company

This is one of the often overlooked brownie points in an interview. Asking the HR manager for background information about the facility shows them that you're really interested in becoming part of the team. Also, use this time to engage in conversation about the company by throwing in your two-cents. This is where researching the company before your interview becomes important.

5. Follow Up with a Thank You Letter

Follow-up your interview with a thank you letter. If you originally applied for the position by email, simply send a letter to the same human resources e-mail address. However, to score extra brownie points, handwritten letters offer a degree of warmth. Virginia Tech recommends sending this letter within two business days of your interview. The purpose of this letter is to show the HR managers that you appreciate their interest in you and that you have good manners.